New York takes on PepsiCo: Landmark lawsuit targets single-use plastic pollution

New York Attorney General Letitia James has filed a groundbreaking lawsuit against PepsiCo Inc. on November 15, citing significant harm caused by the company's single-use plastic packaging.

The Office of the Attorney General's investigation found that PepsiCo's plastic contributes significantly to pollution along the Buffalo River, impacting drinking water and wildlife.

The lawsuit alleges that PepsiCo fails to warn consumers about health and environmental risks, and misleads the public about its efforts to combat plastic pollution.

Seeking to end harmful practices, the lawsuit demands disgorgement, civil penalties, and restitution for damage to New York's communities and environment.

Attorney General James said: No company is too big to ensure that their products do not damage our environment and public health. All New Yorkers have a basic right to clean water, yet PepsiCo’s irresponsible packaging and marketing endanger Buffalo’s water supply, environment, and public health. No one should have to worry about plastics in their drinking water, plastic garbage littering their scenic riverfront, or plastic pollution harming wildlife. I will never hesitate to take on major corporations that put the health and safety of everyday New Yorkers and our planet at risk.

This legal action emphasises the commitment to holding corporations accountable for their environmental impact.